We will be successful if... the team has a lot of depth and a core group who has committed to the program. Although young in some areas the team should be successful if the mainstays set-up and compete at a high level. The team is expected to compete for a MVC title and multiple invitational titles as well as a strong district and state showing.

Team strengths: The Bears should be competitive in every event this year. The distance team is expected to score many points and lead the team; however, the sprinters and jumpers are also poised to score points.

Must improve: Inexperience in the throwing events and an inability to get technique and drill practice may lead to a slow start, but the bears have the raw talent and leadership to turn weakness into an eventual strength.

We will be successful if ... a long winter and cold spring has tempered early season expectations. However, the Bears have made the best of their time by working diligently in the gym, in the parking lots and in the weight room. The Bears will again be a factor in the MVC race. If they can get key contributions in certain areas they will have a chance for the MVC title.

We will be successful if... the girls' numbers are still thin in several events, though turnout is better than last season. We have a strong nucleus of district qualifiers working with the newcomers to be a competitive squad.

Team strengths: Bears' distance team returns many top performers from last year and are expected to lead the team again this season.

Must improve: If the Bears are going to seriously compete in the MVC they need to be more successful in the sprinting and throwing events.

We will be successful if ... a long winter and cold spring has tempered early season expectations. However, the Bears have made the best of their time by working diligently in the gym, in the parking lots and in the weight room. The Bears have the talent and determination to compete every team in the league and hope to challenge for the MVC title.